What is Apriso?
Before discussing Apriso, it is important to understand that information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for any health concerns or before starting any new treatment.
Apriso is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient mesalamine (also known as 5-aminosalicylic acid, or 5-ASA). It is specifically approved for the maintenance of remission in adult patients (18 years and older) with ulcerative colitis (UC). As a member of the aminosalicylate drug class, its primary function is to reduce inflammation in the lining of the large intestine (colon).
The formulation of Apriso is what distinguishes it from other mesalamine products. The medication is contained within a capsule that is both extended-release (ER) and delayed-release (DR). The delayed-release property means the capsule has a special coating that prevents it from dissolving in the stomach, allowing it to travel intact to the intestines. Once there, the extended-release feature releases the mesalamine slowly over time, providing a consistent anti-inflammatory effect where the inflammation occurs.
How Apriso Works in the Body
While the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, mesalamine is believed to work by inhibiting the body's production of certain substances that contribute to inflammation in the intestinal mucosa. In patients with ulcerative colitis, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response in the colon, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. By blocking the production of these inflammatory compounds, Apriso helps to manage this inflammation and keep the disease in a state of remission.
The targeted delivery of Apriso's mesalamine is crucial. The capsules are engineered to dissolve at a pH of 6 or higher, which occurs in the terminal ileum and colon. This ensures that the active medication is released directly in the affected area, maximizing its local anti-inflammatory effect while minimizing systemic exposure. This local action is why mesalamine is generally not considered an immunosuppressant, unlike other UC medications like prednisone.
Administration Considerations
For Apriso to work as intended, patients must follow administration instructions carefully:
- Swallow the capsules whole: Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules. The special coating is vital for targeted delivery and would be compromised if broken.
- Avoid antacids: Antacids can disrupt the dissolution of Apriso's enteric coating. Patients should not take Apriso with antacids.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids is important while taking Apriso, as it helps minimize the risk of kidney stones.
- Consistency is key: Taking the medication at the same time each day helps maintain a steady level of the drug in the system, which is important for preventing symptom recurrence.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Like all medications, Apriso can cause side effects. Most are mild to moderate, but some serious adverse reactions can occur.
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Cold or flu-like symptoms
- Rash
Serious Side Effects:
- Mesalamine-Induced Acute Intolerance Syndrome: A serious reaction mimicking a UC flare, with symptoms including abdominal cramping, bloody diarrhea, fever, and rash. If this occurs, treatment should be discontinued immediately.
- Kidney Problems: Patients with existing kidney issues, as well as those taking other nephrotoxic drugs like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), have an increased risk of renal impairment or kidney stones. Kidney function is typically monitored during treatment.
- Liver Problems: Liver injury has been reported, particularly in those with pre-existing liver disease.
- Severe Skin Reactions: Rarely, severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) can occur.
- Hypersensitivity Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, including inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis) or the lining of the heart (pericarditis), are possible.
Comparison of Apriso and Lialda
Both Apriso and Lialda are popular brand-name mesalamine products used for ulcerative colitis, but they have key differences in their formulation and use.
| Feature | Apriso | Lialda |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Mesalamine (0.375g capsules) | Mesalamine (1.2g tablets) |
| Primary Use | Maintenance of remission | Maintenance and induction of remission |
| Form | Capsules | Tablets |
| FDA Approval | Adults 18+ | Adults and children (based on weight) |
| Timing/Food | Once daily in the morning, with or without food | Once daily, must be taken with food |
| Formulation | Extended-Release (ER) and Delayed-Release (DR) capsules | Extended-Release (ER) and Delayed-Release (DR) tablets |
Long-Term Management and Outlook
Apriso is intended for long-term use as a maintenance therapy to keep ulcerative colitis in remission. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing flare-ups in adult patients. However, it is not a cure, and consistent, long-term treatment is necessary to manage the disease effectively.
For some patients, a generic version of mesalamine may be a more affordable alternative, but the specific formulation and may differ, so any brand changes should be made under a doctor's supervision. For comprehensive prescribing information, refer to the FDA-approved Apriso label.
In conclusion, Apriso is a vital component of long-term ulcerative colitis management for many adults. Its targeted, once-daily formulation provides a convenient and effective way to sustain remission by directly managing inflammation in the colon. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to understand the proper use, potential side effects, and monitoring required for safe and effective treatment.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
